ACT’s Ukraine Fundraising Dinner in Auckland last night raised more than $35,000 to support humanitarian and frontline aid efforts in Ukraine.

The funds will go directly to trusted organisations and individuals working on the ground, including Owen Pomana and Humanity Ukraine, Tenby Powell and Kiwi K.A.R.E, and the Ukrainian Association of New Zealand.

ACT Leader and MP for Epsom David Seymour, who hosted the sold-out event at La Vista Restaurant in St Heliers, says the generosity of attendees reflects New Zealanders’ continued support for Ukraine nearly four years after Russia’s invasion began.

“This result shows New Zealanders have not forgotten Ukraine,” says Mr Seymour.

“Every dollar raised will go directly to people delivering aid, medical supplies, and practical assistance to those affected by the war.”

The dinner was hosted by La Vista Restaurant owner Nataliya Shchetkova, whom Mr Seymour has known since 2019. Mr Seymour previously supported the Shchetkova family’s residency case, launching a petition that gathered more than 12,000 signatures.

“At the time, Nataliya’s case showed how immigration policy could fail to recognise people who had invested in New Zealand and become valued members of their community,” says Mr Seymour.

“Today, she continues to give back – hosting this dinner every year, and helping New Zealanders support the people of her homeland.”

Since hosting its first Ukraine fundraiser, ACT and its supporters have now helped raise more than $165,000 for humanitarian and frontline efforts. Guests heard firsthand accounts from speakers who have worked inside Ukraine, including Owen Pomana, Tenby Powell, and representatives of the Ukrainian Association of New Zealand, alongside a recorded message from Ukraine’s Ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, Vasyl Myroshnychenko.

“These speakers reminded us that behind the headlines are real people defending their homes, their families, and their freedom,” says Mr Seymour.

“New Zealanders may be far from Ukraine geographically, but events like this show we are not distant in spirit.”

The cost of hosting the dinner was once again generously covered by former ACT Party President John Boscawen, ensuring every dollar raised will go directly to supporting humanitarian work in Ukraine.

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